Row over KFC halal meat in Canada; find out why
Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) in Canada is facing backlash from Hindu and Sikh communities over its decision to serve only halal-certified chicken at most of its Ontario locations. The groups argue that this move contradicts their religious beliefs and principles of inclusiveness. According to India Today, the Hindu Forum Canada has formally requested KFC to reconsider this decision, citing "cruelty," violating the "spirit of the law," and the "principles of inclusiveness."
KFC's halal decision sparks controversy in Ontario
The controversy began in May, when KFC issued a memo to its restaurants in Ontario (excluding Thunder Bay and Ottawa) to switch to halal meat, citing its commitment to providing diverse and inclusive options for customers. KFC stated it will ensure "all chicken products are Halal Certified, including but not limited to: chicken on the bone, chicken tenders, popcorn chicken, sandwiches, wings, etc." It also noted that pork products have been discontinued, barring those co-branded with Taco Bell.
Halal means 'permissible' in Arabic
The term "halal" means "permissible" in Arabic, as defined by Canada's Halal Monitoring Authority. "According to the dietary rules of Islam, halal refers to foods that are fit for Muslim consumption," the organization said, adding that the meat is prepared using a certain slaughtering method. Following the KFC notification, a petition was launched by one Roop Sandhu to stop serving halal chicken in some of its Canadian outlets, as it "dismisses" dietary restrictions of other religious groups.
Feel marginalized by the decision of KFC: Petitioner
"I, as a Canadian, feel marginalized by the decision of KFC to serve exclusively halal meat. A lot of Canadians, including Indian religious groups like Sikhism and Hinduism, prohibit the consumption of halal meat," Sandhu stated in the petition's description. The petition argued that it is not questioning Islamic values, but rather asking KFC to ensure that "the dietary preferences of all individuals are recognized and respected."
KFC notice to its Ontario stores
KFC's halal policy criticized for favoring one religion
Sharing the concerns, the Hindu Forum Canada, said, "For some 71 years KFC has operated restaurants in Ontario without the requirement that each of its restaurants serve only halal chicken." "We believe this abrupt change is not in keeping with the spirit of the law, the principle of inclusiveness, or your own corporate brand," the notice read.
KFC's halal policy called 'discriminatory' in workplace
Baljeet Bawa also stated that as a Sikh he follows 'Rehat Maryada,' a Sikh code of conduct that forbids eating Halal meat. He suggested that KFC should also include Jhatka or other non-Halal forms so that other faiths do not have to compromise. The legal notice also labels KFC's halal policy as "Discriminatory" in the workplace, stating that "Halal slaughtering requires males Muslims to perform the slaughtering. This prevents woman and non-Muslims from being employed in this industry."
